Azafrán
Saffron

Often described as red gold, azafrán is one of the most expensive spices in terms of prices per kilo because of the complexity of its cultivation and collection.
A kilo of high quality saffron could cost as much as €2500. Production in Spain is focused on Castilla la Mancha where it has been given DOP status as Azafrán de La Mancha.
Saffron is used in paellas, risottos and in dessert dishes too, although many Spaniards use cheaper colorante as a substitute.